Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Suspicion of CAD may be based on your medical history and symptoms, such as chest pain with exertion. A complete physical exam will be done to look for other signs of CAD. Diagnosis is often made by assessing the results of several tests. Tests can also eliminate other health conditions with symptoms similar to CAD. In some people, CAD is found accidentally during a regular physical exam.

The most accurate way to diagnose CAD is with
coronary angiography
and coronary catheterization. During this procedure, a thin tube is threaded to the coronary artery where a dye is released. The dye shows the location of blockages in the coronary arteries.

Other tests that may detect changes in blood flow include:

Echocardiogram
—Ultrasound that detects abnormalities in the heart muscle by highlighting areas of poor blood flow.

Exercise stress test
—Records the heart's electrical activity during increased physical activity. It may be coupled with other tests that detect blood flow through the heart. People who cannot exercise may be given IV medication that simulates the effects of physical exertion.

Chest x-ray
—Detects heart enlargement or congestion in the lungs. This test can help diagnose
heart failure
or an unrelated lung condition.

Electrocardiogram
(EKG)—The EKG records the electrical activity of your heart through electrodes attached to the skin. This test will help diagnose heart rhythm problems, muscle abnormalities, and damage to the heart from a previous
heart attack
.

SPECT scan—Evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle or looks for signs of a heart attack.

Blood tests may also be done to look for risk factors for CAD such as:

Elevated C-reactive protein levels

Cholesterol levels

High blood glucose levels (diabetes)

Blood tests may also be done to look for related conditions such as kidney or liver disease.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.